“Whenever Something Bad Happens…” : Kentucky Derby to Have Extra Set of Eyes to Prevent Untoward Incidents

The ‘Greatest Two Minutes of Sports’ is right around the corner and thrilled fans cannot wait for the event to start. With the Kentucky Derby set to attract more than 10,000 fans at Churchill Downs, preparations are being boosted to prevent any unfortunate events. A newsfeed named Wave3 gave all details of the outriders at Churchill Downs that will stay on high alert to prevent any accidents.

With more than 20 years of surveillance experience, these outriders will be carefully watching the racetrack to ensure that the Derby race goes on without any mishaps. Churchill Down’s decision to allow the public to see their favorite horses train in the mornings free of cost has increased their responsibilities. An outrider named Lee Lockwood explained in detail the role he and two other outriders Greg Blasi and Shane Hoodenpyle will play to ensure the safety of all.

Outriders’ eagle eyes monitor the race track vigilantly

In a recent conversation, Lockwood expressed, “As far as safety is concerned, we’re like lifeguards at a pool. Whenever something bad happens, we’re the ones that have to spring into action first.” Along with manning the grounds, Lee, Greg and Shane also escort horses to their allotted posts and help horses if required.

Lockwood also implied that only when there were unruly horses, their workload would increase, otherwise their tasks weren’t hectic. “There are three of us out in the mornings at this time because of all the extra distractions”, he added, as reported by Wave3.

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Some of the other duties of the outriders will be aiding in the Kentucky Derby post-parade, and assisting in capturing racehorses, if they break free suddenly, which can be a Herculean task. However, watchful outriders aren’t the only measures adopted by the Kentucky Derby to ensure safety. Here are some of the other precautions declared by Churchill Downs to prevent any unfortunate incidents

Strict guidelines issued for fans and patrons visiting  Churchill Downs racetrack

Every patron visiting the racetrack will have to go through the required metal detector scans at the entry points. Guests will also be prohibited to carry items like alcoholic drinks, balloons, confetti, fireworks and hoverboards among other items.

A recent policy introduced by Churchill Downs also limits the number of bags that people will be allowed to carry from 29th April. Every guest will only be allowed to take a single bag to the racetrack and the bag size shouldn’t be more than 12″ x 6 x 12.”

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The responsibilities given to outriders and the other safety precautions issued indicate how everything possible is being done to keep any dire circumstances at bay. What other precautions do you think Churchill Downs needs to take for the Kentucky Derby? Share your thoughts in the comments section.